RIP Jim Gasser, the Gentle Barbarian

[Don Quixote]

Many of you may know by now of the untimely and tragic death of Jim Gasser also known as Gunnar the Barbarian in an accident while on his way to the Pleasure Faire in CA. His passing is being felt immensely by the many folks here in Kansas City and elsewhere that knew and loved him.

I knew Jim as a fellow performer at KCRF for a number of years. He never failed to great me with tremendous warmness every morning during faire and then later during the day we would always exchange a "warrior's salute." I often wanted to stop and chat with him beyond those greetings but I knew this would be keeping him from his always huge audience of children. I know Jim wouldn't have minded as he always had time for everyone, but I reminded myself he belonged with his young admirers.

Jim was a man of striking stereotypical contradictions. He indeed looked incredibly formidable with his sculpted physique and barbarian garb but as soon as he spoke you knew you were in the presence of a man with of a unique placidity and gentleness of spirit. You couldn't walk away from him without feeling better. I know it is cliché, but Jim did indeed touch every life he encountered.

Jim and I did have the opportunity to finally sit down and converse for an extended period several years ago at the Alcott Center. I will always treasure our discussion although now I do not recall its' particulars. I just remember how genuine and without guile he was, and how dedicated he was to his pursuits.

In all the qualities and traits we admire and call honorable in our fellow man, Jim possessed in abundance. In all that Jim set his immense energies to, he mastered. He had emnity with no man, and all he called his friend.

I hope you will understand and forgive that I am angry with God right now. I just don't understand why He would take Jim from us; it seemingly serves no purpose or good. Jim had so much left to give, so many left to inspire. My only hope is that we can take Jim's life as example and be the better for it. And don't worry about me and God, He knows me well and that we will eventually reconcile, but I just can't fathom His ways at this moment.

To Jim's family I offer my heartfelt condolences, to my KCRF brethren I offer my love and support. To Jim, sitting on his gleaming warrior's throne in the place we will all be reunited someday, I offer my thanks for your friendship, encouragement and inspiration. I have never known a better man than you. Rest you well Gentle Warrior.

[Ferret]

Don't be angry. Jim sounds like the kind of person who'd want you to rejoice in his having existed, than feel anger for his leaving.
Ferret

[lordwriothsley]

Jim's family are in my thoughts and prayers during this sad time.